Ranger Falls and Green Lake
Hike through enchanting old-growth forests to the beautiful Ranger Falls and serene Green Lake in Mount Rainier National Park.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best snowmelt for falls
Ranger Falls and Green Lake
Best Time
Best snowmelt for falls
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Hike through enchanting old-growth forests to the beautiful Ranger Falls and serene Green Lake in Mount Rainier National Park.
"The hike through the old growth is amazing and so lush and green. "
Bike back to car
Consider biking the 3 miles back to the trailhead parking lot for an easy return trip. :bicycle:
Check road status
Roads like Sunrise can close seasonally due to snow. Always check conditions before you go. :snow_cloud:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ranger Falls
Carbon River Entrance
A beautiful waterfall cascading down, best seen with spring snowmelt. The hike to it is lush and green.
+1
Green Lake
Carbon River Entrance
A serene lake surrounded by mossy ferns and potentially snow-capped peaks, offering stunning natural beauty.
+1
Old Growth Forest Hike
Carbon River Trail
Wander through a magical, ancient forest with towering trees and vibrant green mosses. A truly enchanting experience.
Sunrise Point Views
Sunrise Road
Panoramic 360-degree views of Mount Rainier, glaciers, and surrounding volcanoes. Accessible by car.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timed Entry Reservations are Key
Prepare for Variable Conditions
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bike back to car
Consider biking the 3 miles back to the trailhead parking lot for an easy return trip. :bicycle:
Check road status
Roads like Sunrise can close seasonally due to snow. Always check conditions before you go. :snow_cloud: +1
Pack for all weather
Layers are essential! Weather can shift quickly from sunny to snowy. :umbrella: :sunwithface:
Explore Carbon River
The Carbon River entrance offers unique trails like Ranger Falls and Green Lake. :evergreen_tree:
Tips
from all over the internet
Bike back to car
Consider biking the 3 miles back to the trailhead parking lot for an easy return trip. :bicycle:
Check road status
Roads like Sunrise can close seasonally due to snow. Always check conditions before you go. :snow_cloud: +1
Pack for all weather
Layers are essential! Weather can shift quickly from sunny to snowy. :umbrella: :sunwithface:
Explore Carbon River
The Carbon River entrance offers unique trails like Ranger Falls and Green Lake. :evergreen_tree:
Timed entry needed
Book reservations in advance, especially for Paradise, to avoid long waits. :ticket: +1
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the enchanting old-growth forests and the beauty of Ranger Falls and Green Lake, especially during spring. The hike is described as a rewarding journey through lush scenery. Some find the 11-mile round trip challenging but manageable, especially with strategies like biking back. The Carbon River entrance offers a more secluded experience compared to other park areas.
"Ranger Falls is accessible from the Carbon River Trail. It is on the Green Lake Trail that is about 3 or 4 miles from the parking lot. Part of the walk is through a delightful old growth forest, then follows the milky Carbon River to the trailhead. Ranger Falls is at it's best in Spring when fresh snow melt is feeding it. Green Lake is also a pleasant enough destination in itself, so be sure to head up there are checking out ranger falls!"
Christopher Walker
"Beautiful falls on the way to Green Lake. The hike through the old growth is amazing and so lush and green. I rode my bike to the trailhead and that made the trip back to parking lot really easy. Think it was about 15 min for the three mile ride back to car?"
Michael Powell
"Nice hike off the Carbon River Trail. It’s a decent amount of elevation and switch backs, but there are a couple flat sections to catch your breath again."
Steven Kwan (kwanste)
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Ranger Falls and Green Lake are accessed via the Carbon River entrance of Mount Rainier National Park. Park at the Carbon River Trailhead. The hike to Ranger Falls is part of the Green Lake Trail, which is approximately 11 miles round trip.
Yes, there is parking available at the Carbon River Trailhead, which serves as the starting point for the Green Lake Trail.
Many visitors find it convenient to bike the first 3 miles of the Carbon River Trail to the Green Lake Trailhead, as the return trip is much faster.
The Carbon River entrance is located in the northwest corner of Mount Rainier National Park. Specific directions will depend on your starting point, but it's generally accessed via WA-165.
Shuttle services are not commonly mentioned for this specific trailhead. It's best to drive directly to the Carbon River Trailhead.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, Mount Rainier National Park often requires timed entry reservations, especially for popular areas like Paradise, during peak season. Check the official park website for current requirements and book in advance. +1
The standard entrance fee for Mount Rainier National Park is typically per vehicle. An America the Beautiful Pass is also accepted. Check the NPS website for the most up-to-date fee information.
The Carbon River entrance and its associated roads are generally open year-round, but may experience closures due to weather. It's always wise to check the park's official website for current conditions and hours.
While arriving early can sometimes help avoid queues, timed entry reservations are often mandatory regardless of arrival time during designated periods. Plan ahead to secure your spot.
Information about park passes, including the America the Beautiful Pass, can be found on the National Park Service website.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The hike to Ranger Falls and Green Lake is approximately 11 miles round trip, making it a full-day adventure. +1
The Green Lake Trail has an elevation gain of about 1,466 feet. The first 3 miles are relatively flat before the ascent begins.
Expect to hike through a beautiful old-growth forest, alongside the milky Carbon River, and to reach lush green areas around Ranger Falls and Green Lake.
While the hike is beautiful, its 11-mile length and elevation gain make it a moderate to challenging hike. It's best suited for those with some hiking experience.
The Carbon River Trail itself is scenic, passing through old-growth forests and alongside the river. Ranger Falls is a notable feature on the way to Green Lake.
📸 📸 Photography
The lush old-growth forest, the cascading Ranger Falls, and the serene Green Lake itself offer fantastic photographic opportunities. Capture the vibrant greens and the power of the falls.
Morning light can be beautiful filtering through the forest canopy. For Ranger Falls, spring snowmelt offers the most dramatic flow. Sunsets can also be stunning in the park. +1
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive forest and lake views. A tripod can be useful for capturing the motion of the waterfall.
Many visitors highlight the beauty of the moss-covered trees and the unique color of Green Lake. The trail itself offers many picturesque moments.
Drone usage is restricted in all US National Parks, including Mount Rainier. Check the park's official website for current regulations regarding drones.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the full hike to Ranger Falls and Green Lake is long (11 miles round trip), families might consider hiking partway to experience the forest and river before turning back. Alternatively, exploring easier trails near the Longmire or Paradise areas (which may require timed entry reservations) could be more manageable for a day trip with children. Always pack plenty of snacks and water, and be mindful of the park's elevation and changing weather.
Budget Travelers
Packing your own food and drinks is highly recommended, as dining options within the park can be limited and expensive. For accommodation, look for camping options within or near the park, or consider staying in more affordable towns outside the immediate park vicinity. The scenic drives and hikes themselves are free once you've paid the entrance fee.
Photography Enthusiasts
Ranger Falls is best captured during spring snowmelt for maximum water flow, while Green Lake offers serene reflections and vibrant colors. For panoramic vistas, head to Sunrise Point for sweeping views of the mountain and surrounding peaks. Don't forget to capture the stunning fall colors or the dramatic snowy landscapes in different seasons.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Enchanting Carbon River Entrance
Key attractions within this entrance include the Ranger Falls and Green Lake trail. The journey begins on the Carbon River Trail, which is relatively flat for the first few miles, making it accessible for many. The trail then leads to the ascent towards Green Lake, offering a rewarding hike through stunning natural scenery.
+1Visitors often praise the unique atmosphere of the Carbon River area, noting the sense of stepping back in time amidst the ancient forest. It's a fantastic option for those seeking a less crowded, more intimate encounter with the park's natural beauty. Remember to check the park's website for any road status updates, as this entrance can sometimes be affected by weather conditions.
Hiking to Ranger Falls and Green Lake: What to Expect
As you progress, the trail begins to gain elevation with switchbacks leading you towards Green Lake. The elevation gain is around 1,466 feet, so be prepared for a steady climb. The reward for your effort is the stunning scenery: Ranger Falls, a beautiful cascade, and the serene Green Lake, often surrounded by lush greenery and, depending on the season, possibly snow.
+1Many hikers recommend bringing a bike to ride the 3 miles back to the parking lot, significantly cutting down on return time and effort. This is a popular strategy that many locals and experienced visitors employ. Ensure you have sturdy hiking boots, water, and snacks for this substantial day hike.
Seasonal Beauty: Fall Colors and Snowy Peaks
As autumn progresses, snow begins to fall at higher elevations, transforming the park into a winter wonderland. By late October or November, you can expect snowy conditions, especially along the roads leading to areas like Sunrise. This is when proper winter gear and preparedness become crucial for any visitor.
Even in winter, the park offers stunning vistas, though access may be limited. The contrast between the vibrant fall foliage and the pristine white snow makes Mount Rainier a year-round destination for photographers and nature enthusiasts alike. Always check the park's website for seasonal road closures and weather advisories.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit